In a bold move at the Republican National Convention, signs declaring “Mass Deportation Now!” highlighted the party’s strong support for Donald Trump’s vow to remove millions of migrants in what could be the most massive deportation initiative in America’s history. However, not all Republicans are fully on board with this approach.
Republican activist Lauren B. Peña from Texas expressed discomfort at the language used by Trump, such as “illegals” and “invasion,” and hopes that his stance on mass deportations is more about targeting criminals and sex offenders than every family crossing the border. Trump, on the other hand, has made immigration a central theme of his campaign, echoing past deportation policies like the controversial 1950s “Operation Wetback” led by former President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
During an interview with Time Magazine, Trump hinted at involving the National Guard, and potentially the military, to target an estimated 15 to 20 million people, although official government figures from 2022 put the number of undocumented migrants in the U.S. at around 11 million. These plans have shifted the election focus from just border security to a broader debate on the nation’s approach to immigration.
Despite historic border crossings during the Biden administration, Democrats have also moved towards tougher stances on immigration, often starting with border security discussions before addressing assistance for current immigrants. Both parties are now aiming to attract voters like Peña, a 33-year-old Hispanic voter from swing states.
While some lawmakers have voiced support for Trump’s deportation plans, others have expressed reservations or proposed more modest objectives. Senator James Lankford of Oklahoma highlighted the logistical and financial challenges of targeting the over 1 million individuals with final removal orders from immigration judges.
In response to criticisms of his 2016 administration’s failure to fulfill deportation promises, Trump has outlined a more aggressive plan if re-elected. His proposed measures include re-implementing travel bans, utilizing the National Guard for mass detentions and deportations, and ending birthright citizenship. The administration would also put a halt to various temporary programs affecting over 1 million migrants.
Such policies could have widespread consequences across industries like housing and agriculture, especially in battleground states. Both Republicans and Democrats are navigating the complexities of immigration policies and their impact on communities and the economy, as the upcoming election approaches.
